More than 150 people living in Durham have taken part in a debate about the future of their city.

Late-night drinking, the cost of the Gala Theatre and the fear of students taking over the city were among the concerns voiced by those who attended.

City Council officials were joined by community representatives, police and university officials, for the "State of the City" debate on Wednesday evening.

Council leader Sue Pitts said the event was a success.

'Good audience'

The debate comes one month after consultants described the cathedral city as beautiful, but dull.

One of the main concerns voiced by people at the meeting was the Gala Theatre which has been in financial difficulties since it opened in January 2002.

Those who attended were also concerned at what they said were increasing problems associated with late-night drinking the city.

Ms Pitts said: "I think the debate went very well. There was a really good audience, about 150 people, which was tremendous for a public consultation meeting.

"There were a tremendous variety of questions - a whole range of issues people are concerned about and I think the panel did wonderfully well answering because not all of them were easy ones to answer."